Escape from the ordinary; explore world through the Travel Lecture Film Series

The popular Travel Lecture Film Series, brought to campus each year courtesy of the Washington University Alumni Association, returns this season with eight travelogues that cover the world.

Created by some of the most esteemed artists in the industry, the films feature gorgeous scenery and great storytelling.

The travelogues can be seen at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. the first Friday of each month in Graham Chapel, unless otherwise noted. Single tickets are available at the door for $5 per person. The series’ schedule for 2006-07 follows.

Nov. 3: Denmark & Sweden — the Kingdoms of Scandinavia. Filmmaker Jim McDonald emphasizes the dynamic relationship of the land with the Baltic and North seas, and conjures up images of ancient Vikings as he journeys through these Scandinavian countries.

Dec. 1: Hawaii Paradise. December is a perfect time to enjoy beautiful Hawaii via Dennis Burkhart’s film. No matter the weather here, it’s always a perfect tropical day in Hawaii.

Jan. 5: Bringing Home Sardinia: Italy’s Mediterranean Isle. The sunny Mediterranean is a perfect stop. Featuring sculpted hillsides and crashing waves along the coastline, Steve McCurdy shows why Sardinia is a favorite stop for world travelers.

Feb. 2: Hello! Louisiana. Folk musicians Monty and Marsha Brown bring the unique mix of French, Spanish and African cultures to life in this film featuring the “Pelican State.” Discover the allure of this special state.

March 2: Inside Iraq: The Untold Stories. Step past the news cameras and experience the real Iraq with this special film by Mike Shiley. This stark, moving exposé will add a new dimension to understanding this fascinating country.

April 13: Rails Across Russia — St. Petersburg to the Black Sea. Travel 8,500 miles across this massive land and through eight time zones via the Great Siberian Railway to experience Russia, from its great city of St. Petersburg to the Black Sea. The film, by Mary Lee and Sid Nolan, will be shown in the Arts & Sciences Laboratory Sciences Building, Room 300.

May 4: 10 Questions for the Dalai Lama. If you could ask the Dalai Lama any question, what would it be? Rick Ray had 10 to ask, which are recorded in a documentary featuring the Tibetan holy man. This glimpse into the wise man’s mind concludes this year’s series.

(Due to deadlines, this story could not be published before the first program, Route 66 Revisited: The Return Trip, was shown Oct. 6.)

For more information on programs, costs and registration procedures, contact Liz McCandless at 935-5212.